Available EHDC Powers: Site Deallocation Review Policy

What it is:
A formal policy that allows EHDC to consider removing sites from the Local Plan if they remain undelivered beyond a reasonable period.

How EHDC should use it:
Include in the Local Plan a review trigger (e.g. “If no application is made within 3 years of adoption, the site may be reconsidered.”)

Impact:
Puts landowners on notice: allocation is not indefinite.

🏡 What Is a “Site Deallocation Review”?

When the Council allocates land in the Local Plan, it’s basically saying:

“We’re trusting you to build here — not just sometime, but within a reasonable window.”

But what if that land just sits there for years, unused?

A site deallocation policy gives EHDC the power to say:

“You’ve had enough time. You didn’t deliver. We’re giving someone else a chance.”

🧭 How Does It Work?

  • EHDC writes into the Local Plan: “If no application is made within 3 years of adoption, this site may be deallocated.”
  • They check each year in the AMR.
  • If no progress — they issue a warning.
  • If still no progress — the site can be replaced in the next plan review.

🎯 Why Does It Matter?

Without this power:

  • Developers can treat allocations like long-term investments, not promises,
  • Sites sit undeveloped while others fight to get land,
  • Local trust in planning collapses.

✅ Final Thought

This is about consequences.

“If you’re not serious about delivery, you lose the privilege of allocation.”

That helps reward proactive builders and deter speculative land holders.